Google will launch the first alpha of its Chrome OS this week, according to reports.
The story comes via TechCrunch which cites a reliable source within Google. The search giant has previously claimed that it will look to release a version of Chrome OS before the end of November, so the news isn’t particularly difficult to believe.
If proved correct, it’s likely the OS will be a fairly lightweight offering with limited driver support. However, TechCrunch claims the alpha will be tailored for Eee PCs, which offer similar hardware across the majority of models.
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Chrome OS was announced in July, with Google claiming it would be designed to run everything “from small netbooks to full-sized desktop systems”.
“As we did for the Google Chrome browser, we are going back to the basics and completely redesigning the underlying security architecture of the OS so that users don’t have to deal with viruses, malware and security updates. It should just work,” the company claims.
Essentially, Chrome OS is the Chrome browser sat on top of a Linux kernel, but it’s particularly interesting because it will support both x86 and ARM chips.
Google claims to have already made deals with hardware partners including Acer, Asus, HP, Lenovo and Toshiba.
Chrome OS is expected to be completed mid-2010.
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